If you have been searching for a vibrant and refreshing salad that bursts with flavors and colors, look no further than this delightful Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe. It wonderfully combines crisp green beans with creamy feta, zesty red onions, and crunchy toasted almonds, all brought together by a tangy homemade dressing. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but a taste sensation that will instantly become one of your go-to healthy side dishes for any season, especially when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe plays a key role, creating a harmonious balance of texture, taste, and color. From the fresh crispness of green beans to the salty creaminess of feta and the aromatic freshness of dill, these components are simple yet essential for making this salad truly shine.
- 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed): Choose crisp beans for the perfect snap and vibrant green color.
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a mild sharpness and beautiful purple color to your salad.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: A creamy, salty element that complements the fresh veggies perfectly.
- 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds: Provides satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill: Brightens the dish with its fragrant, herbaceous notes.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: The base of the dressing, lending richness and smoothness.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Brings acidity and a touch of fruity tang to balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a hint of sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 small garlic clove (minced): Offers a subtle zing that lifts the whole salad.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the trimmed green beans for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re just tender but still have a satisfying crunch. Immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process and keep their vibrant color intact. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and gently pat dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This dressing is simple but powerful in bringing together the various elements with a beautiful balance of acidity and richness. Whisk until fully combined and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, toasted slivered almonds, and freshly chopped dill. Each of these adds a unique texture or flavor dimension, making every bite exciting and fresh.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure every bite is coated evenly. You want the dressing to enhance without overpowering. This Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe is equally delightful served chilled or at room temperature, so choose whatever suits your mood or occasion.
How to Serve Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your salad, try adding a few garnishes such as extra crumbled feta on top for creaminess or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a sharper finish. A small handful of fresh herbs like parsley or extra dill can lift the flavors even more, making your salad look as stunning as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or even a light pasta dish, making it highly versatile. It also works well as a refreshing side on a summer BBQ table or alongside Mediterranean staples like hummus and pita bread. Its crisp texture and zesty flavors provide a perfect counterpoint to richer mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, present the salad in individual glass cups or layered jars, showcasing the beautiful contrast of colors and textures. You can also use it as a topping for bruschetta or wrap it inside flatbreads for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired lunch. Its visual appeal is as much fun as its taste!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed fresh, so add any remaining feta cheese just before serving to keep its creamy texture intact.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing because the texture of blanched green beans and fresh ingredients like feta and almonds can change when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or refrigerated for a short period to maintain optimal texture and freshness.
Reheating
Since this dish is designed to be served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, simply let it sit out for a few minutes after removing from the fridge. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crunchy texture and fresh flavors of the salad components.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans for this salad?
While fresh green beans give the best crunch and color, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before blanching to avoid excess water in your salad.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free alternative, try using crumbled goat cheese or a firm tofu marinated in lemon juice and herbs for a similar tangy, creamy effect.
How long can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
This Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe can be made several hours ahead. To keep textures perfect, add the crumbled feta just before serving so it does not become soggy.
Are there any variations to the dressing?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding a touch of honey or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the dressing for a slightly different sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Can I add proteins to make this a main dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions that turn this refreshing salad into a satisfying main course with plenty of protein and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe truly captures the essence of fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors with every bite. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, wholly nourishing, and such a crowd-pleaser that you will find yourself coming back to it again and again. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and make it a staple in your recipe collection—you’ll love how effortlessly it brightens up any meal.
Print
Green Bean and Feta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired Green Bean and Feta Salad featuring crisp blanched green beans tossed with tangy feta, crunchy toasted almonds, and a flavorful dill vinaigrette. Perfect as a healthy side dish for summer or any meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create the dressing.
- Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the blanched green beans, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, toasted slivered almonds, and chopped fresh dill.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to evenly coat everything without bruising the delicate feta.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a bright, healthy side dish that complements many main courses.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add more toasted nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts.
- This salad can be made several hours ahead—add the feta cheese just before serving to maintain the best texture.
